The term bamboo identifies a group of very vigorous evergreen plants belonging to the Poaceae (Paceae) family.
When we talk about bamboo, we are therefore referring to a herbaceous plant (and not a tree or shrub, as one might think), which grows in tropical and subtropical areas, mostly in Asia. The main bamboo plantations are located mainly in China and Japan, but Africa, Oceania and America are also home to rich cultivations.
Because it is extremely adaptable, bamboo is also increasingly cultivated in Europe.
There are about a hundred genera and 1200 species, all characterised by particularly fast growth and the ability to reach a height of up to 40 metres.
It cleans the air
Growing bamboo helps to purify the air by consuming carbon dioxide and, because bamboo forests are so dense, it releases 30% more oxygen back into the atmosphere than conventional trees. A bamboo crop can absorb up to 12 tonnes of carbon dioxide per hectare from the atmosphere.
It needs little energy and water
The amount of energy required for the cultivation of bamboo is far less than that required for most yarn plants (cotton above all). Bamboo plantations are very low maintenance. Bamboo also needs little water and can survive droughts and floods.
It regenerates the soil
Due to its rapid growth and root structure, in just a very short time, bamboo can recover land destroyed by overgrazing or overcultivation, and it also cleans toxins from the soil.
It can be grown without pesticides
Bamboo can be grown without using pesticides or chemicals because of its natural antibacterial agent.
It can be harvested sustainably
Bamboo is one of the fastest growing plants on the planet, making it a high-yield, renewable resource. It can be selectively harvested every year and is able to grow back completely without the need for replanting.
100% biodegradable
Unlike synthetic fibres that incorporate petroleum additives, bamboo garments are safe and 100% disposable.
The textile fibre made from the stem of the bamboo plant has characteristics that make it ideal for sporting activities.
The cross-section of the bamboo fibre reveals several micro-holes that allow high moisture absorption: bamboo is four times more absorbent than cotton. This allows garments made of bamboo to wick away moisture without the wearer feeling wet; this means heat is effectively dispersed by evaporation. It also means that sweat and its natural cooling function for the body are not hindered.
Bamboo fibre is odourless and hypoallergenic
Bamboo yarn contains a natural antimicrobial agent called kun, which prevents the spread of the bacteria responsible for unpleasant odours. The biological properties of bamboo and its smooth fibres make it particularly gentle on the skin, meaning it is ideal for people with skin sensitivity, dermatitis or other allergies.w
Bamboo fibre is soft and protects against UV rays
Bamboo clothing is softer to the touch than cotton and when worn gives a pleasant feeling of freshness, even after several hours of use. Due to its natural softness, bamboo fibre is often compared to cashmere or silk.
Bamboo also provides a natural protection against the sun’s harmful UV rays.
How is textile fibre obtained from the plant?
Bamboo textile fibre is obtained from the stem, using a process of alkaline hydrolysis and multi-step bleaching. This is a phenomenon that causes the material to “melt” so that the fibre can be extracted using water. Bleaching, on the other hand, is an important and essential step in the processing the fibre; it helps to whiten the textile by removing unwanted components.
The bamboo fibre used in Bioma garments is made by companies that use sustainable and certified manufacturing processes.
Bioma
- Use of precious sustainable Italian yarns
- Unique attention to detail obtained from refined production processes
- Maximum commitment to reduce environmental impact
